DAVID GILMOUR

DAVID GILMOUR's self-titled first foray into solo territory comes off quite well. This obviously guitar-focused work will probably be enjoyed more than any of the other band member's various solo projects (at least it is for this reviewer). FLOYD fans will fall in love with this bluesy album. A "missing" FLOYD album if ever there was one...

While not overly 'progressive', the FLOYD 'sound' and 'feel' is present to the trained ear. With a voice that could melt butter, GILMOUR's vocals and axe work are worth their weight in gold, even if some of the songwriting and lyrics can at times come across as just 'straightforward, mainstream' rock n' roll. Yet, 'average' GILMOUR is still superior to most other artists ;-)

'There's No Way Out of Here' will most likely be the only song people have heard before listening to the record in full, as it it was a (minor) FM radio hit when released. Replete with the requisite GILMOUR solo it is a good, if not stereotypical tune.

The fans of the more 'melodic' GILMOUR (think: 'SOYCD', 'Green is the Colour', 'Fat Old Sun') will find the gentle offerings found in 'Short and Sweet' (wonderfully co-written with ROY HARPER) and 'So Far Away' more to their taste.

Fans of the edgier GILMOUR sound (think: 'Time', 'Dogs') will appreciate the heavier sounding 'Raise my Rent' and 'Cry From The Street'. But GILMOUR is no WATERS, so don't expect any dark, brilliant and cynical "Animals"-type lyrics.

FUN FLOYD FACTOID: Dave Gilmour originally wrote 'Comfortably Numb' for this album. Still in its demo form with only guitar tracks and without any lyrics, Gilmour wisely decided to save it, and bring it to a certain Mr. WATERS for the next FLOYD album. We all thank him for that!

My favourite FLOYD solo album by any of the band members. 4/5 stars.